Have you heard about the dwarf hamster before?
In fact, there are multiple types of hamsters, and one of the most famous is the dwarf hamster, which also branches into several types, including the Russian dwarf hamster.
The Russian dwarf hamster is considered a cute and beloved animal by many people, and therefore in this article from teketrek, we will clarify important facts and information about the Russian dwarf hamster and how to care for it.
What are the characteristics of the Russian dwarf hamster?
The Russian dwarf hamster belongs to the chordates, subphylum vertebrates, class mammals, and is one of the types of rodents, belonging to the Cricetidae family.
The Russian dwarf hamster is named so due to its incredibly small size, usually reaching a length of only 2 to 4 inches.
The color of the Winter White Dwarf Hamster changes from gray and white to brown and white, depending on the season.
This transformation allows them to camouflage from potential predators.
The lips and cheeks of the Russian dwarf hamster are characterized by white fur, while the rest of the fur around the face is either gray or white.
The Russian dwarf hamster has incredibly small ears covered with gray-brown hair, the surface of the hands and feet is white, to ensure the hamster stays warm in cold climates like Mongolia.
It resembles mice more than hamsters.
Where does the Russian dwarf hamster live?
The Russian dwarf hamster is found throughout Central Asia, the Altai Mountains, and the autonomous region of Tuva.
As well as Hebei Province in northeastern China.
This hamster’s preferred place is semi-desert areas, and it usually lives in burrows containing 4-6 horizontal and vertical tunnels.
What is the lifestyle of the Russian dwarf hamster?
The Russian dwarf hamster is usually solitary in the wild, while individuals in captivity often do not mind the presence of other species in their territories.
The Russian dwarf hamster is a nocturnal animal, feeding at night and capable of traveling up to one mile in search of food.
Due to the expandable pouches on the cheeks of the Russian dwarf hamster, which can contain large amounts of food, it is able to store food or bedding while searching for food at night.
Usually, it carries food in its cheeks, then stores it in its burrows.
The depth of the burrow reaches 3 meters underground, and each burrow has several exits and entrances and consists of comfortable chambers.
They usually line the walls of these rooms with sheep’s wool and dry grass for more comfort.
When threatened, these animals quickly enter one of the burrow’s entrances and thus escape from the predator.
What is the diet of the Russian dwarf hamster?
The Russian dwarf hamster is a herbivorous plant-eater and a grain-eater.
The Russian dwarf hamster feeds on seeds, nuts, plants, as well as small invertebrates and insects.
It is known that the Russian dwarf hamster eats corn, oats, sunflowers, in addition to peanuts, dried fruits, dried vegetables, and alfalfa.
What are the breeding stages of the Russian dwarf hamster?
The Russian dwarf hamster is polygamous, meaning that both males and females have several partners.
Different groups of this species breed at different times of the year, depending on the location.
The breeding season for the Russian dwarf hamster begins in April for the inhabitants of Tuva, and in May for the Transbaikal regions in Mongolia.
The Russian dwarf hamster usually breeds until early September or October.
In the wild, Campbell’s hamster usually produces between 3 to 4 young out of an average of 7 young annually.
The gestation period for those in captivity lasts from 18 to 20 days.
So far, the shortest recorded gestation period for Campbell’s hamster in captivity is 13 days.
The parents take care of the young until they are 17 days old, after which they are weaned.
Male Russian dwarf hamsters mature at the age of 23 days, while females reach reproductive maturity at the age of 48 days.
The young Russian dwarf hamsters must stay with their mother until they are weaned at the age of three weeks.
Their eyes do not open until they are about two weeks old, and they are colorblind from birth.
By the eighteenth day of their lives, you will be able to see their small ears popping out.
These creatures are deaf and hairless at birth, although their fur will begin to appear when they are about five years old.
Is the Russian dwarf hamster a good pet?
The Russian dwarf hamster is a very friendly pet, and its breeding and care are not expensive at all.
Whether you want to own a pet for the first time or are looking for a fun animal to add some entertainment to your atmosphere, the Russian dwarf hamster is one of the best options.
You can keep one hamster alone or choose a group of hamsters to live together in a large cage.
Remember that Russian hamsters are nocturnal animals, so they are more active at night and can add an atmosphere of fun after a long day of work.
Russian dwarf hamster animals love movement and activity, and for this reason, buying a lot of toys and a good exercise wheel is necessary.
Make sure to choose a cage with plenty of space for running and exploring.
The Russian dwarf hamster is suitable for children of average age, as it is a very sensitive creature and cannot be dropped from any height.
It is also very fast, which makes handling it more difficult in the absence of awareness.
Difference Between the Russian Dwarf Hamster and Campbell’s Hamster
The Russian dwarf hamster and Campbell’s hamster are two different types of dwarf hamsters, but both are commonly referred to as “Russian dwarf hamsters.”
- Campbell’s hamster is a subspecies of the Russian dwarf hamster and is also known as the Russian dwarf hamster.
- Campbell’s hamster is more social, while the Winter White Russian hamster prefers to live alone.
- The Winter White Russian hamster changes its fur color to white in winter, which explains its name.
- Campbell’s hamster may be slightly larger than the Winter White Russian hamster.
- Campbell’s hamster tends to be more active and energetic.
- The Winter White Russian hamster is often calmer and easier to handle.
How to Prepare an Ideal Environment for a Russian Dwarf Hamster at Home
To set up an ideal environment for a Russian dwarf hamster at home, you should provide a spacious cage, suitable bedding materials, an exercise wheel, and a shelter. Feed them a balanced diet and ensure they always have access to clean water.
Additionally, make sure to place the cage in a quiet and safe area away from other pets, and avoid exposing the cage to drafts or direct heat sources.
Signs of Illness in Russian Dwarf Hamsters and Prevention Methods
Like any other pet, the Russian dwarf hamster may show various signs of illness. It’s essential to monitor your hamster regularly for any behavioral or physical changes, which may include:
Loss of Appetite:
If the hamster stops eating or shows a significant decrease in appetite, it could indicate a health issue.
Lethargy:
A normally active hamster that becomes sluggish and inactive may be unwell.
Changes in Fur:
Hair loss, bald patches, or dirty/wet fur around the tail area can signal illness.
Unusual Discharge:
Discharge from the eyes, nose, or tail area may point to an infection.
Diarrhea:
Loose or watery stools may indicate digestive issues or infection.
Frequent Sneezing:
Persistent sneezing and difficulty breathing can be signs of respiratory infections.
Wetness Around the Tail:
This may indicate “wet tail” disease.
Excessive Urination and Thirst:
These could be symptoms of diabetes or kidney problems.
Prevention Tips:
- Cage Hygiene: Clean the hamster’s cage regularly to remove urine, feces, and other waste that may cause infections.
- Balanced Diet: Provide a complete diet with all the essential nutrients your hamster needs.
- Avoid Drafts and Direct Sunlight: Place the cage away from drafts and sunlight, as this can overheat your hamster.
- Regular Health Checks: Examine your hamster frequently for any signs of illness, such as discharge, diarrhea, or appetite loss.
- Personal Hygiene: Wash your hands well after handling it.
- Veterinary Care: If you notice any unusual signs, consult a veterinarian specialized in small pets.
Best Toys for Russian Dwarf Hamsters
Russian dwarf hamsters love toys they can explore and chew, such as tunnels, wooden bridges, wheels, and toys made from safe, natural materials. They also enjoy digging and running, so providing digging areas and an exercise wheel is essential to keep them happy and active. Playing not only boosts the hamster’s health but also gives owners fun ideas to engage their pet.
How to Train a Russian Dwarf Hamster to Interact with Humans
Russian dwarf hamsters are usually shy at first, but they can get used to handling if approached gently and calmly. It’s important to gradually accustom them to your presence, especially when they are young. Key steps to follow include:
- Avoid grabbing the hamster suddenly or disturbing it while it’s sleeping. Start by placing your hand near the cage to let it sniff and get used to you.
- Spend some time each day near the hamster and gently pet it inside its cage to help it get used to your touch and scent.
- Use favorite treats like sunflower seeds to encourage the hamster to approach you.
- Once the hamster is comfortable with your hand, gently try to hold it. Start by scooping it up from underneath and lifting it gently.
- Make sure your hands are clean and free of strong smells or chemicals that may bother the hamster. Use your hands to safely cup the hamster, and avoid grabbing it from above.
- Understand that every hamster adapts at a different speed, and some are more shy than others.
Popular Colors and Patterns of the Russian Dwarf Hamster
Russian dwarf hamsters are popular pets, known for their variety of colors and patterns. The most common include dark gray with a black dorsal stripe and a white belly, gray-blue, and the Winter White variety that changes color seasonally (gray or brown in summer, lighter in winter).
Other colors include albino, silver, black, black-eyed white, opal, light brown, purple, platinum, and spotted varieties.
Causes of Appetite Loss in Russian Dwarf Hamsters
Loss of appetite in Russian dwarf hamsters can be a sign of several health problems, including illnesses, dental issues, and stress. It’s essential to monitor the hamster closely to identify the cause and take appropriate action. The main causes include:
- Kidney Inflammation: May cause appetite loss, excessive urination, and thirst.
- Diabetes: Can lead to loss of appetite, frequent urination, and thirst.
- Bladder Inflammation: May result in changes in urination behavior and appetite loss.
- Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can cause loss of appetite and fever.
- Overgrown Teeth: If it’s teeth are too long, it may struggle to eat.
- Gingivitis: Gum inflammation can cause swelling and pain, making eating difficult.
- Vitamin Deficiency: Lack of certain vitamins may cause appetite loss.
- Mineral Deficiency: Can lead to general health problems and appetite loss.
Some common questions about the Russian dwarf hamster?
- What is the lifespan of a white dwarf hamster?
The average lifespan of the Russian dwarf hamster is two to three years.
- Does the dwarf hamster like to play with you?
Initially, these types of hamsters are somewhat shy, which means you will have to learn how to train them to get used to handling them.
Experts recommend spending about 5 minutes several times a day holding the hamster until it gets used to this activity. Over time, regular handling of the pet leads to its taming and ease of carrying.
- Does the dwarf hamster bite?
Yes, all rodents can bite, but the only reason a hamster tends to take bites is if it feels scared or threatened.
- What is the best type of bedding for a hamster cage?
Pine tree shavings are preferred as bedding for the cage. It helps keep the cage clean and helps the hamster feel at home
- What is the suitable location for placing the hamster cage?
Place the cage in a comfortable room where the temperature remains constant and there is no draft.
Do not place the cage next to a heat source inside the room.
Rooms that are very cold can make the hamster very lazy
- What are the suitable foods for the Russian dwarf hamster?
It should be fed a balanced diet that keeps it happy and healthy. It can be fed hamster seeds, fresh vegetables, and fruits in moderation.
Are white hamsters friendly?
Yes, it is friendly, kind and tolerant.
In conclusion
There are only a few things you need to make the Russian dwarf hamster happy and healthy: the right cage, the right diet, the right bedding.
Their habitat should be as large as possible, as they love to hide, play, dig, and exercise all day.
Make sure to find a well-ventilated metal habitat or a large tank.
Often, a cage with a wire metal top provides the best ventilation to prevent ammonia buildup in the cage between changes, which is a risk with a plastic or glass tank.
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